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Draft:Certified Penetration Testing Specialist

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Overview

The HTB Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS)[1] is a hands-on, intermediate-level certification focused on penetration testing and ethical hacking. This certification validates the candidate’s ability to identify and exploit security vulnerabilities using a wide array of methodologies, tools, and real-world scenarios. Unlike traditional certifications that may rely on theoretical knowledge or multiple-choice questions, the CPTS emphasizes practical skills through real-world tasks, ensuring the holder is prepared for the demands of professional penetration testing engagements.

Target Audience

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The HTB CPTS certification is designed for individuals in the following roles:

  • Junior Penetration Testers
  • Penetration Testers
  • Security Analysts
  • Vulnerability Analysts
  • Incident Handlers
  • IT Security Personnel

Knowledge Domains

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HTB CPTS evaluates candidates across several critical areas:

  • Penetration testing processes and methodologies
  • Information gathering & reconnaissance techniques
  • Attacking Windows & Linux targets
  • Active Directory penetration testing
  • Web application penetration testing
  • Manual & automated exploitation
  • Vulnerability assessment
  • Pivoting & lateral movement
  • Post-exploitation enumeration
  • Windows & Linux privilege escalation
  • Vulnerability/Risk communication and reporting

The Exam

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The CPTS exam requires candidates to conduct black-box penetration testing, covering web, external, and internal network assessments. Candidates work within HTB’s infrastructure, accessible via VPN, and are provided with a letter of engagement detailing objectives, requirements, and scope. The exam assesses not only the candidate’s ability to find vulnerabilities but also their skill in delivering actionable findings and comprehensive risk assessments.

References

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https://academy.hackthebox.com/preview/certifications/htb-certified-penetration-testing-specialist

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UN5fTQtlKCc

  1. ^ 0xP, 0xP (Oct 25, 2023). "Why HTB's CPTS exam will become the Standard for Modern Day Penetration Testers".{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)